.416 Rigby vs .458 Lott
Typical factory loads side by side: speed, energy, BC, twist, range and what each one is built for.
The short answer
With typical loads, the .416 Rigby is about 100 ft/s faster at the muzzle (2,400 vs 2,300 ft/s).
The .458 Lott carries about 15% more energy at the muzzle (5,873 vs 5,115 ft-lbs), which usually also means more recoil.
On the same size target, the .416 Rigby has the longer point-blank range (230 yd), so you can hold dead-on a bit farther without adjusting.
Side by side
| .416 Rigby | .458 Lott | |
|---|---|---|
| Made for | Legendary low-pressure buffalo and elephant round. Big case, heavy bullet, deep penetration. | Lengthened .458 Win Mag designed after its creator was hurt by a buffalo; more speed and fires .458 Win Mag ammo too. |
| Typical load | 400 grsolid | 500 grsolid |
| Muzzle speed | 2,400 ft/s | 2,300 ft/s |
| Muzzle energy | 5,115 ft-lbs | 5,873 ft-lbs |
| Typical BC (G1) | ≈ 0.32typical, varies by brand | ≈ 0.30typical, varies by brand |
| Twist rate | 1:16 | 1:14 |
| Practical range | 150–200 yd | 150 yd |
| Point-blank range | 230 yd6" vital zone | 218 yd6" vital zone |
| Recommended platform | Bolt rifle, 10–10½ lbVery heavy recoil; practice before the hunt | Bolt rifle, 10–11 lbBrutal recoil |
Which one fits you?
.416 Rigby: Legendary low-pressure buffalo and elephant round. Big case, heavy bullet, deep penetration.
.458 Lott: Lengthened .458 Win Mag designed after its creator was hurt by a buffalo; more speed and fires .458 Win Mag ammo too.
For most hunters, the right pick is the one you can shoot accurately and comfortably, in a rifle that fits how you hunt. Good shot placement and a bullet built for your game matter more than small differences on paper.
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Speed, energy and BC are typical figures for the listed load; real numbers vary by brand, lot and barrel length. Always check the ammo maker's data for your exact load.